Meat, particularly red meat, was traditionally considered a luxury item and was often consumed by upper-caste Hindus and wealthy individuals on special occasions and during festivals.

Millet, along with other coarse grains like barley and sorghum, was often consumed by lower-caste individuals and marginalized communities due to its affordability and availability.

Meat, especially beef, was often forbidden for lower-caste individuals due to religious and cultural beliefs that associated it with impurity and pollution.

Ghee, clarified butter made from cow's milk, is often associated with purity and is used in religious ceremonies, festivals, and special occasions.

Sweets, particularly those made with milk and sugar, were often seen as symbols of wealth and prosperity and were consumed during special occasions to display one's social status.

Bread, particularly flatbreads like roti and naan, was often offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality and warmth, symbolizing the host's generosity and welcoming nature.

Millet, a hardy and drought-resistant grain, was often consumed by agricultural laborers and farmers due to its affordability and availability, as well as its ability to withstand harsh conditions.

Spices, particularly exotic and expensive ones like saffron and cardamom, were often associated with merchants and traders due to their involvement in the spice trade and their ability to afford such luxuries.

Turmeric, a spice with a bright yellow color, was often used in traditional Indian medicine for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Fruits, particularly certain types like coconuts and bananas, were often used in religious rituals and ceremonies due to their symbolic and auspicious significance.

Sweets, particularly those made with milk and sugar, were often consumed during Diwali to symbolize prosperity and good fortune.

Bhang, a drink made from cannabis leaves, was often consumed during Holi due to its psychoactive effects and its association with joy and revelry.

Sweets, particularly those made with milk and sugar, were often consumed during weddings to symbolize sweetness and happiness in the new couple's life.

Fruits, particularly certain types like coconuts and bananas, were often given to new mothers and their families to symbolize fertility and abundance.

Sarson ka Saag, a dish made from mustard greens, is often associated with the state of Punjab and is a staple food in the region.